Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup ghee
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Rolling pin
- Deep frying pan
- Slotted spoon
- Plate lined with paper towels
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and ghee. Mix well until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture and knead until a smooth dough is formed.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts and roll each part into a thin sheet.
4. Sprinkle a little bit of sugar and cardamom powder on each sheet and fold it in half.
5. Repeat the process of sprinkling sugar and cardamom powder and folding until you have a stack of folded sheets.
6. Roll the stack into a thin sheet and cut it into small squares.
7. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
8. Fry the squares until they turn golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove the squares from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
10. Let the squares cool down to room temperature before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Oil temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
Makes about 20 pieces
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 80
Total fat: 4g
Saturated fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 8mg
Sodium: 1mg
Total carbohydrates: 10g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour.
- Butter or margarine can be used instead of ghee.
- Brown sugar or honey can be used instead of white sugar.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or raisins to the sugar and cardamom powder mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the fried squares for a decadent dessert.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the dough is kneaded well to ensure a smooth texture.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the squares from the oil to prevent them from breaking.
- Store the khaja in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.
Storage instructions:
Store the khaja in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the khaja in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the khaja on a platter and sprinkle powdered sugar over them for a simple yet elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish the khaja with chopped nuts or fresh berries for added color and texture.
Pairings:
Serve the khaja with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack.
Suggested side dishes:
Pair the khaja with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
- If the squares are not crispy, increase the heat of the oil and fry them for a longer time.
Food safety advice:
- Use caution when handling hot oil.
- Make sure the khaja are fully cooked before serving.
Food history:
Kakinada Khaja is a traditional Indian sweet that originated in the city of Kakinada in the state of Andhra Pradesh. It is a popular snack during festivals and special occasions.
Flavor profiles:
The khaja has a crispy texture and a sweet, cardamom flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the khaja as a dessert or snack.
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Region: Indian